The injury has led to Hodgson seriously monitoring other options and Liverpool full-back Flanagan has leapt up the Three Lions' pecking order.

He was not even picked for the last England Under-21s squad but, after becoming such an impressive part of the Reds’ title drive, he has given himself a real chance of being included in the 23-man squad for Brazil.

England staff have watched him regularly and there is a growing belief that he could be worthy of a place as back-up option to Glen Johnson.

Jack Wilshere remains high on the World Cup agenda as he battles back from injury.

If he is not hampered by niggles on the back of a hairline fracture to his foot, suffered while on international duty at the beginning of March, he remains sure of his place.

Hodgson said: “Jack Wilshere has had bad luck with injuries but if he can regain fitness he can still be extremely important.”